You know that weird dread the morning after a night out? Overthinking every little thing you said, feeling low, struggling to sleep it off?
That’s not just in your head. It’s a real thing. And it happens to loads of us.
We don’t talk about it much, but the link between alcohol and mental health is a lot stronger than it gets credit for. Especially when you’re juggling uni, work or just trying to stay on top of life.
So if your nights out are starting to affect your head the next day, here’s what’s actually going on.
What alcohol does to your brain
Alcohol slows your brain down. That’s part of why it feels relaxing at first. But once the buzz wears off, the crash can hit harder than expected.
Mood drops
Alcohol gives your brain a quick dopamine hit, which feels great in the moment. But afterwards, your brain has to rebalance and that can leave you feeling low, flat or just a bit off.
Anxiety spikes (aka hangxiety)
Drinking messes with your nervous system. The next day, your stress levels can go up which can make you feel on edge, paranoid or shaky. Even if you didn’t do anything embarrassing.
Sleep gets messed up
You might crash out easily after drinking but it’s not proper deep sleep. That’s why you can wake up feeling groggy or emotionally drained even if you had a lie-in.
What can you actually do about it?
This isn’t about quitting drinking forever. It’s about clocking what your brain needs and making choices that help you feel better, not worse.
Pay attention to how you feel after drinking
If you always feel anxious or low the next day, that’s worth noticing. You’re not being dramatic.
Try switching it up
Even just skipping that last drink, starting later or mixing in water can make a difference. You’re not missing out. You’re just looking after your future self.
Look after your head as much as your night out
Make sure you eat, get some air, check in with a mate. The basics genuinely help more than you think.
Don’t bottle it
If you’ve been feeling off for a while, talk to someone. Whether it’s a mate, a GP or a support line, it’s not a big deal to ask for help. It’s actually one of the smartest things you can do.
Final word
No shame if drinking has started to mess with your mood. That doesn’t make you weak or broken. It just means your brain’s doing its job and telling you something’s up.
You’ve got options. You’re allowed to make changes. And you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.